During a visit to Washington, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has sparked diplomatic debate, indirectly assigning responsibility to the United States and regional dynamics for Pakistan’s security issues. Zardari claimed the US’s withdrawal from Afghanistan and the subsequent abandonment of military equipment have exacerbated Pakistan’s internal security challenges by providing resources to terrorist groups.
Zardari emphasized the ongoing discussions between Pakistan and the United States about terrorism and Afghanistan. He advocated for increased international and regional collaboration to address terrorism, without mentioning any historical role of Pakistan in supporting extremist elements in neighboring countries.
He highlighted that some terrorist groups operating within Pakistan possess advanced weaponry, allegedly sourced from the black market, that was left behind in Afghanistan. The Islamic Emirate has yet to respond to Zardari’s comments, but has previously warned Islamabad against making statements that could harm their relationship.
Political analyst Mohammad Zalmai Afghan Yar critiqued Islamabad’s approach. The exchange occurs at a time when Kabul and Islamabad have recently improved diplomatic ties by elevating envoys to full ambassadors.